Competitors were offered their choice of pumpkin and the tools and stencils necessary to transform it into in a beautiful – or terrifying – work of art. While carving out their masterpieces, students were also able to munch on Halloween-themed treats – including personal “trick-or-treat” boxes of candy – and listen to spooky seasonal music like the soundtrack to “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

The top three winners, selected by a panel of staff judges, received their choice of a Scroll and Pen Bookstore gift card, a membership credit for the Brookdale Fitness Center, or bonus money for their campus club.

“When I first heard about this, I was like ‘What? We can do that?'” said Brookdale Student Life Board member Rebecca Nastro, putting the finishing touches on her “Pumpkin King” sculpture.

“It’s so much fun. I’m a huge fan of Halloween and this really does get you into the spirit. I know it’s only Oct. 3, but I’m ready to go get dressed up already.”

For those who didn’t feel like joining the contest, representatives from the Brookdale Theater Department were on hand to provide temporary tattoos and give live demonstrations of “monster makeup,” which will be used in this year’s Haunted Theater in Lincroft. Learn more about the Haunted Theater here.

Members of the EOF Program’s Rising Leaders Academy added a lighter touch to the event, allowing students to paint and personalize their own “Peace Rock” as part of a year-long effort to promote international peace. Learn more about the Rising Leaders here.

Learn more about Brookdale’s upcoming Student Life events by visiting the SLA webpage.

Check out more photos from the Pumpkin Painting and Carving Contest here.